BOTOX® VS XEOMIN COSMETIC
Botox® is the registered trademark for the neuromodulator that is used for the procedure. Because it was the first one in the market, the treatment became known by its brand name (similar to how Kleenex is the term known used to say tissue, even when referring to other brands of tissue).
Xeomin Cosmetic has the same efficacy and value as Botox® – it is like comparing apples to apples.
Xeomin Cosmetic is widely used and has been approved by Health Canada since 2009. It differs to Botox® in that its active ingredient has been isolated and freed from complex proteins and antimicrobial preservatives. Thus, giving the desired natural results, without exposing patients to any components that are not necessary.
History of Botox®/Xeomin Cosmetic
Botox®/Xeomin was first used in the field of ophthalmology to treat uncontrolled eye blinking (blepharospasm) and for correcting lazy eye (strabismus) in children. It is also used in the field of neurology for muscle spasms and in dermatology for treatment of sweaty palms and underarms.
Side Effects
One may experience temporary redness or bruising which may be covered by makeup. Rarely, if Botox®/ Xeomin migrate to the upper eyelid, one can experience a slight drooping of one eyelid which corrects itself after a short while. Occasional temporary numbness of the forehead and transient headache may occur. There have been no reports of allergic reaction. Botox®/Xeomin may not be administered during pregnancy or lactation.
Misconceptions about Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox®/Xeomin)
MYTH 1: Botox®/Xeomin will change the shape of the face, and will do it permanently.
FACT: Not the case, neuromodulator injections simply stop the muscle being treated from contracting, the effect lasts 3-6 months as the muscle activity gradually returns.
MYTH 2: Botox®/Xeomin in toxic.
FACT: Botox®/Xeomin is overall very safe. Very small doses are used for treatment. It is a FDA approved injectable, which has been used for many years for both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes.
MYTH 3: Botox®/Xeomin gives a ‘frozen’ or ‘plastic’ expressionless look.
FACT: The amount of muscle inactivity depends on the amount of dosage (units) used. With the proper dosage given, a natural, refreshed, and more youthful look can be achieved.
MYTH 4: Once you stop getting Botox®/Xeomin, you will look older.
FACT: Neuromodulator injections help prevent wrinkles from forming or worsening by reducing the muscle activity that is causing them. Once treatments are stopped, the muscle activity will gradually return and will resume the normal development of wrinkles with facial movement.
MYTH 5: Botox®/Xeomin will travel throughout the body and infect it.
FACT: Botulinum Toxin Type A comes from a bacteria, but is not itself one. It is a protein that blocks the nerve signal from causing the muscle to contract. It works locally at the site of injection and does not spread throughout the body.
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